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Speed Cushion FAQ

Below are the
answers to the questions we are asked most frequently
about speed cushions. Hopefully, you will find the
information you need on this page, but if your question
isn't listed here or if you need additional information,
please
contact us.

What are speed
cushions?

They are a type of speed hump that allow larger
vehicles, especially fire trucks, to straddle them
without significantly slowing down. Several small speed humps are
installed in a series across a roadway with spaces in
between them. The small humps look like cushions.

What do speed cushions look
like?

This photo shows the speed cushions located on Hermosa
Vista Drive between Lindsay Road and Gilbert Road in
Mesa. Speed cushions are now located on many
streets throughout Mesa.

What are the dimensions of
a speed cushion?

Length: 12 feet
Height: 3 inches
Width: at least 6.5
feet
The detail below is for a set of speed cushions on
a 48-foot wide street.

How effective are speed
cushions?

A study of the effectiveness of speed cushions on
eight streets in Mesa showed
that, on average, the 85th percentile speeds when
measured mid-way between
two sets of speed cushions, decreased by about 7 mph.

What can I do to
stop the installation?

The level of neighborhood support is one of many factors
that determine whether the speed cushions will be
installed. You may voice your opinion by completing a
survey, contacting staff, or by speaking to the
Transportation Advisory Board at the time the item will
be voted upon. Call 480.644.2160 or check the website (www.mesaaz.gov/speed)
for the date and time of the TAB meeting.

Why can't regular speed
humps be used?

Speed humps delay emergency response vehicles much more
than speed cushions. Streets considered to be emergency
response routes by Mesa's Fire and Medical Department are eligible
for speed cushions only.

Will speed cushions damage
my car?

To date, we are not aware of any vehicles that have been
damaged.

How much do speed cushions cost?

The cost varies depending on the width of the road.
To install a set of cushions on
a 48-foot wide street costs about $5,000.

Will it cost me anything?

The neighborhood is responsible for all data collection
costs required to determine if the street meets the
warranting criteria.

For streets that meet all of the
warranting criteria, there may be an additional cost to
the neighborhood for construction, depending on the
volume of traffic. For streets carrying more than 500
vehicles per day, the City pays all costs of
construction. For streets with fewer than 500 vehicles
per day, the neighborhood is responsible for $500 for
each set of speed cushions.

Why is the City spending
monies on this now?

Speeding in neighborhoods is the number one concern
for many residents. The
City Council supports spending a modest amount to
address these concerns.